Looking for free WiFi or SIM in UAE? Tourists now get a free eSIM with mobile data right after immigration.

Dubai, UAE: If you're visiting the UAE, one of the first things you’ll want is reliable internet—maps, calls, messaging, social media—all that. Now there’s good news: tourists can get a free eSIM with 10 GB of data valid for 24 hours immediately after passing immigration. No need to queue up for a physical SIM or rush to find a shop. It’s a simple, digital-first way to stay connected from the moment you arrive.

What Is the “Free Visitor Line eSIM”

This is an initiative by the telecom operator e& UAE (formerly Etisalat) aimed at giving visitors instant data access upon arrival. It’s part of the “Free Visitor Line eSIM” service. The purpose is to help tourists and visitors hit the ground running—booking hotels, grabbing a ride, contacting friends or family, or simply navigating from the airport.

You get 10 GB of data, and it lasts for just one day (24 hours). After that, you can switch to a paid visitor/data plan, depending on how long you're staying and how much data you need.

How to Activate the eSIM

The process is very user-friendly and designed for speed and convenience.

1. After Immigration
   Once you clear immigration at any UAE airport, look for QR codes on digital displays in the arrivals hall. You’ll also find them at some Metro stations or large shopping malls, but the fastest way is right after you land.
2. Scan the QR Code
   Use your phone’s camera or QR scanner to open the URL tied to the eSIM offer.
3. Facial Recognition Verification
   You’ll be asked to complete a facial recognition step for identity verification. This is part of ensuring proper activation and compliance.
4. Download the eSIM Profile
   If your phone supports eSIMs (we’ll talk about how to check in a moment), you can download and install the profile. Once done, your 10 GB data becomes active for 24 hours.

Who It Works For: Device Compatibility & Access

Before you try, make sure your phone supports eSIMs. Most newer devices do, but here are some quick checks:

• On iPhone: Go to Settings → Cellular / Mobile Data and see if there’s an “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan” option.
• On Android: Depending on brand and version, look for Connections → SIM Manager or Mobile Plans and see if “Add eSIM” appears.

If your phone doesn’t support eSIM, don’t worry—there are alternatives. A free physical Tourist SIM card with smaller data (like 1 GB) valid for 24 hours is available through one of the local providers. You can then top up or switch to longer data plans as needed.

Beyond the Free Day: Options for Longer Stays

The free eSIM is a one-day perk. If you want more data or a longer validity, you can choose from Visitor Line packs or tourist bundles that include data (and sometimes minutes). These come in various sizes and durations—7 days, 14 days, etc.—depending on how long you stay.

Telecom providers like e& and du provide these packs. Some are data-only, others include voice/SMS if you need them. Just make sure to pick what matches your usage: if you mostly use apps, maps, or social media, data-only plans are likely enough.

Why This Is a Big Deal

• Instant Connectivity: No need to hunt down a store or wait in long queues after a long flight. You can connect the moment you exit immigration.
• Convenience: All digital—QR, facial ID, eSIM profile download. More eco-friendly and hassle-free.
• Useful for First Day: Get directions, book transport, confirm hotel check-in, communicate with others without scrambling for WiFi.
• Tourism Goodwill: It’s a welcome gesture for visitors, reflecting UAE’s push for being digitally advanced and tourist-friendly.

Things to Keep in Mind

• The data in the free eSIM is valid only for 24 hours. Use it well; after that you’ll need to move to a paid plan if you want more.
• Ensure your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM; otherwise, you may need to use the physical SIM alternative.
• Facial recognition is required for verification—make sure your device’s camera works and that you have good lighting.
• QR codes are on airport screens, metro stations, shopping malls—stick to official signs. Avoid random flyers or unverified kiosks to protect against scams.
• If you don’t move to a longer-data plan after the free period, you may lose connectivity after the day ends.

Comparison with Other Free & Paid Options

Besides this free “on arrival” deal:

• Some providers offer free physical SIMs with smaller data allowances (1 GB for 24 hours) at immigration counters.
• For stays longer than a day or heavier data usage, there are paid bundles from e&, du, Virgin Mobile, etc.

These paid plans give you more flexibility: more GBs, longer validity, and sometimes voice/SMS included.

What Tourists Should Do: A Quick Checklist

• Check whether your phone supports eSIM before travel.
• Once you land, scan the QR code at the airport as soon as possible.
• Complete facial recognition and install the eSIM profile.
• Use free data wisely—map downloading, ride-hailing, messages on the first day.
• Compare visitor packs before buying: pick one that matches your stay length and usage.
• While travelling with both physical and eSIM lines helps if you need local numbers or SMS receipts.
• Keep an eye on official telecom websites or apps for any updates or changes.

Conclusion

The UAE’s free tourist eSIM offering—10 GB for 24 hours activated via QR and facial recognition—is a game-changer for first-day connectivity. It removes many hassles travellers face: finding a shop, waiting in line, dealing with SIM cards. For those with eSIM-capable phones, it means being online immediately; for others, there’s still a fallback.

Whether you’re here for a day, a week or longer, this initiative reflects the UAE’s push toward seamless travel experiences and smart digital services. It’s a smart welcome gift for anyone arriving to enjoy the country.